New guidelines for calculating maximum weight capacity for horses

The Association of British Riding Schools has shared some really useful advice regarding horse and rider weights. Some conclusions include:

• A horse should carry no more than 20% of the their own weight (eg for a 500kg thoroughbred this would be 100kg)

• This includes tack do must be deducted to find a rider allowance Inexperienced or unbalanced riders should have their weight increased by 10% (eg an 80kg rider becomes 88Kg)

• Weight carrying capacity should be adjusted sensibly with consideration to confirmation, body condition, age, fitness, concurrent conditions etc

Read the full guidance on horse and rider weights here.